Ep 1. Water Softener; App; Shadow Box
- October 7, 2017
On Ask This Old House season 16 episode 1, the team meets homeowners who have hard water issues and install a water softener system. Next, they tackle an app-controlled thermostat installation to increase energy efficiency. Lastly, they create a shadow box to display a cherished family heirloom.
The first segment of this episode dives into the common issue of hard water. Host Kevin O'Connor visits a couple who have noticed that their water leaves white, cloudy stains on their dishes and skin. Kevin explains that this is caused by mineral buildup in the water and recommends installing a water softener system to solve the problem. He calls in plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, who details the benefits of a water softener system and walks through the installation process step-by-step. From the placement of the unit to the types of pipes and fittings needed, Richard gives a thorough explanation to ensure homeowners can complete the process with ease.
Next up, general contractor Tom Silva helps a couple install an app-controlled thermostat to better manage their heating and cooling systems. Tom walks through the installation process, explaining how to properly locate the thermostat and wire it up to the HVAC system. He also demonstrates how to connect the thermostat to the home's WiFi network and pair it with the corresponding app. This type of thermostat allows homeowners to save energy by programming the system to automatically adjust based on their routines, and Tom explains the importance of properly using the app to maximize energy savings.
Lastly, woodworking expert Norm Abram helps a family create a shadow box to display a cherished family item. He details the selection of materials, layout of the shadow box and how to properly mount the item to be displayed. Norm walks through each step of the process, from cutting the wood to staining and finishing the final product. He also explains the proper tools needed, such as a miter saw and nail gun. The finished product is a beautiful display that perfectly showcases the family heirloom.
Overall, Ask This Old House season 16 episode 1 offers a valuable educational experience for homeowners looking to solve common household issues, increase energy efficiency and complete woodworking projects. The team of experts provides detailed instructions and useful tips to ensure viewers can successfully complete the projects in their own homes.
